turnpike - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
turnpike Word Meanings
- a toll road for vehicles
- a major highway or expressway
- a road that collects tolls for maintenance
turnpike Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
turnpike Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈtɜːnpʌɪk/
US
/ˈtɜrnpaɪk/
turnpike Word Etymology
(a) turn + pike; (b) From Old French 'turne' + 'puy' (a stake) → English; (c) Imagine an early traveler stopping to pay a toll at a wooden stake where the road turns, symbolizing a crossroads that also demands a price for passage.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Turnpike is a noun that denotes a toll road, especially a major highway or expressway that collects fees for maintenance. In American English, the term is often linked to famous tolled routes such as the New Jersey Turnpike, and it can also function as a proper name when referring to a specific road. Historically, a turnpike was a barrier with a pike that blocked passage until the toll was paid. Today, most turnpikes use electronic toll collection or staffed toll booths. For learners, note that turnpike usage is more common in the United States than in the UK, where toll road or expressway are more frequent terms.
Usage Reminders
- Turnpike is a noun; use with the definite article or as a proper name.
- Say on the turnpike or off the turnpike to describe location.
- In the UK, prefer toll road or expressway for the same idea.
- Turnpike can be a named road (The New Jersey Turnpike).
- It is not a verb.
- Check regional usage when writing travel text.
Common Misconceptions
- Turnpike always means a specific toll road named by its city or state.
- Turnpike and toll road are entirely interchangeable in every context.
- Turnpike is a British term you will hear often in the UK.
- Turnpike can be used as a verb.
- All toll roads are turnpikes.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Learn that turnpike is a toll road, not every highway.
- Note US usage and the possibility of it being a proper name.
- Use on the turnpike or off the turnpike for directions.
- Compare with toll road and expressway in UK contexts.
- Avoid turning it into a verb; do not say 'turnpike' as an action.
- Memorize famous examples like The New Jersey Turnpike.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'turnpike' mean?
A.A type of farming method
B.A dance style
C.A toll road for vehicles
D.A species of fish
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'turnpike' correctly?
A.The chef prepared a delicious turnpike for dinner.
B.He saved a lot of time by taking the turnpike to the city.
C.She knitted a turnpike as a gift.
D.He plays the turnpike in the orchestra.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'turnpike'?
A.Highway
B.Bridge
C.Park
D.Sidewalk
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'turnpike'?
A.Path
B.Detour
C.Route
D.Road
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where you might encounter a turnpike?
A.Driving to a concert far away requires using major roads.
B.She enjoyed walking her dog in the neighborhood park.
C.He often traveled on a turnpike during summer vacations.
D.The family gathered for dinner every Sunday.
Related Listening
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